We need to stop blaming the fossil-fuel industry for getting us into this climate change mess. It is we, the consumers who drive the demand, and therefore the solution lies with us. Our demand for electricity is fueling climate change, and we cannot do without it. But we can adapt, as we are beginning to do with transportation.
Surging Electricity Demand Points to Severe Climate Change
The International Energy Agency published a report claiming global demand for electricity surged 6% in 2021. It attributed this to a colder winter than usual, and a speedy economic rebound from the pandemic. CNN reported January 14, 2022 the increase was steepest in China at 10%.
International Energy Agency executive director Fatih Birol describes this as a stark warning for the future. ‘Electricity has a crucial role to play in the fight against climate change as countries ditch fossil fuels and more battery-powered cars hit the road. But renewable energy sources are not keeping pace with growing demand,’ she warns.
Uncontrolled Demand for Electricity is Fueling Climate Change
1… First, renewable electricity generation grew a paltry 6% during 2021.
2… While coal-fired generation leapt 9% due to higher consumption.
3… Then skyrocketing natural gas prices made coal seem an attractive option.
4… As a result, carbon dioxide emissions from power generation rose 7%.
The IEA’s Fatih Birol sees this as a clarion call to ‘decarbonize the broader energy system’. In the interim, perhaps we should take a look at ourselves, and stop pointing our fingers at others? Our personal demand for electricity is also fueling climate change.
Tiny seeds may become forest giants. We can make a personal contribution by moderating HVAC settings, and purchasing goods made from renewable resources. Have a thoughtful look the image accompanying this post. There certainly does appear to be some swing room for reducing our energy consumption…
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